Modern Business Profile: Eau Claire Distillery

Photography by Eau Claire Distillery

Since 2013 in the Foothills of Alberta, tucked into Turner Valley and a short 30 minute drive from Calgary, is Eau Claire Distillery.
They’ve earned the title of Canada’s most awarded distillery and pride themselves on a “farm to glass” process.

1. What specifically does Eau Claire do and how long has it been doing it for?
Eau Claire produces award-winning spirits since 2013.

2. What inspired the name Eau Claire?
The inspiration for “Eau Claire” was a historic Calgary logging company that operated in the area West of Turner Valley. ‘Eau Claire’ which translates to ‘Clearwater’ is also the base for our award-winning spirits.

3. What were the first three offerings from Eau Claire?
Three Point Vodka, Parlour Gin, Prickly Pear Vodka.

4. What makes Eau Claire unique?
A few things make Eau Claire unique. The Terroir: We use Alberta barley in all our spirits, which is renowned across the world. We also use glacial water from the Sheep River. As well, we experience Chinook winds that cause extreme swings in temperature and air pressure. This causes the spirit to expand and contract into the wood, increasing the interaction and maturing at twice the rate you would see in other regions.

Our appreciation of the Past: Since inception, we have farmed about 20 acres of barley using Percheron draft horses, antique farming equipment from the 1920’s and traditional methods of farming. It keeps us close to our farm-to-glass heritage and preserves farming methods in place before the age of modern farming machinery. We believe it keeps us connected with the terroir of the land and is an investment in preserving our heritage.

Our innovation and craftsmanship: We continue to produce innovative and award-winning spirits, challenging specifically what Canadian whisky can become.

5. Earning the title of Canada's most awarded distillery is impressive; what's contributed to that?
Our dedication to quality spirits, our unique climate and our dedicated team have contributed to prestigious awards at the most recognized shows and publications.

6. Of all the awards, which three standout to you?
Rupert’s Whisky was awarded Best in Class and Platinum (double gold 3 years in a row) at the prestigious San Francisco Spirits Awards.

7. The world of whisky is fascinating; what makes Eau Claire's so special?
We have a complex and growing barrel program which is how we will continue to innovate. Our terroir and climate is also unique to southern Alberta.

8. What can visitors expect when they're on-site?
Our distillery is a historical experience. Visitors can explore the history of Turner Valley which was the apex of Alberta in prohibition.

9. How long was the new single malt product in the works for?
This core expression has been seven years in the making.

10. What does the legacy of Eau Claire look like in 20 years?
Proving that Canada can product some of the best premium whisky in the world.

11.What's next for Eau Claire?
Continue to expand cask program, ultra premium whiskies and innovation by going where no whisky producer in the country has gone before.

While it’s been just over a decade, their journey is only getting started.
Now, more than ever, it’s important to support our Canadian businesses and Eau Claire Distillery has a lot to offer.

Select products are available at the LCBO and check back regularly as new products may become available.

To learn more and see their full product line up, visit their website.